Zimbabwe is known for its diverse landscapes and wildlife. The Victoria Falls is a particularly famous tourist destination worldwide.
CapitalHarare
Population15,000,000
Official language(s)English, Shona
CurrencyZimbabwean dollar
Time zoneUTC+2
It's important to check local safety information before visiting Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe (ZW) generally allows relatively short tourist stays, but visa-free eligibility and length of stay depend on your nationality. Before departure, check your passport validity and whether you need a visa. An electronic travel authorization such as the US ESTA, Korea K-ETA, UK ETA, Canada eTA, or Australia ETA is different from any advance online arrival/declaration system for immigration and customs; Zimbabwe is not generally known for requiring a separate pre-arrival online registration for tourists. Paper arrival cards are usually completed on the plane or at the airport, and cash-declaration thresholds should be confirmed against the latest customs guidance before travel.
Prepare for immigration
Have your passport, onward or return ticket, and accommodation details ready for inspection. Visa requirements and stay conditions vary by nationality, so answer the officer’s questions briefly and clearly.
Complete and submit arrival forms
If you are given a paper arrival card or customs form, fill it out and submit it as instructed after arrival. Declare currency, expensive electronics, or any restricted items truthfully rather than trying to hide them.
Pass immigration control
The officer may ask about your purpose of stay, length of stay, accommodation, and onward plans. Fingerprinting or a photo may be taken, so follow instructions calmly.
Baggage and customs checks
Your bags may be inspected by quarantine or customs, and food, plants, and animal products may be restricted. If you have prohibited or declarable items, follow the officers’ instructions immediately.
Check customs and tax refund procedures before departure
Before leaving Zimbabwe, confirm whether you are eligible for a VAT refund and where the process is handled at the airport. If you qualify, keep receipts and purchased goods together, as you may need to show them.
Exit immigration and security screening
On departure, present your passport and boarding pass for exit control and security screening. It is safest to confirm at ticketing whether any departure tax is already included in the airfare.
Final check for restricted items
Before departure, recheck that you are not carrying local produce, seeds, animal products, or items that could be mistaken for cultural property. Confirm the airline and transit-country rules as well to avoid unnecessary confiscation or delays.